As election period nears, NCR cops told to observe rules on checkpoints

Two days before the start of the election period, Metro Manila cops were reminded on the standard operating procedures for the setting up of checkpoints.

A report by radio dzBB’s Carlo Mateo quoted National Capital Region Police Office head, Director Leonardo Espina as saying that the checkpoints will be established in time for the start of the election period on Sunday, Jan. 13.

The same radio report quoted Espina as saying that police will work with the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Commission on Elections in implementing the checkpoint operations.

Espina also reminded his men to follow the standard operating procedures for checkpoints, including conducting them in a well-lighted area with proper signage.

He also reminded police personnel to make sure they are in proper uniform while conducting the checkpoint.

Espina asked the public to report to him any violation of standard operating procedures and other abuses.

The PNP expects to implement additional checkpoints and enforce an election gun ban starting this Sunday, in time for the May 13, 2013 polls.

The reminders were issued in the wake of last Sunday’s encounter in Atimonan town in Quezon province where 13 men aboard two sport-utility vehicles, including law enforcers and an environmentalist, were killed in an alleged shootout.

Police claimed the incident was a legitimate checkpoint operation, but an investigation is now ongoing into whether Sunday’s incident was a summary execution. — RSJ, GMA News